2015 BISHOP’S MINISTRY APPEAL to Support Diocesan Programs and Services

Why should I feel a responsibility to the Bishop’s Ministry Appeal?

The theme for the Bishop’s Ministry Appealis "Becoming the heart, hands and voice of God." Some of the ministries that help us do this are Permanent Diaconate (ministers in outreach programs to the poor and celebrates family life through weddings, baptisms and funerals); Youth and Young Adults Ministry (creates connections by offering leadership training), Hispanic Ministry (develops youth and young adult leaders in the Latino community), and many other needed services best provided at the diocesan level.

As Catholics, we profess the belief that we are part of One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church. This belief extends beyond our parish faith community to include both the diocesan church and the universal church. Diocesan ministries and services reach beyond the scope of any individual parish. While regular gifts to your parish are important, your annual gift to your diocese is equally important.

How does the Bishop’s Ministry Appeal benefit my parish and me?

In the Bishop’s Ministry Appeal brochure, there is a list of the programs and services of the Diocese that are funded by the BMA. You and thousands of your fellow parishioners are directly or indirectly served through these diocesan programs and services.

How is the money from the Bishop’s Ministry Appeal allocated?

This year’s goal of $2,100,000 provides a large amount of the income required to sustain Diocesan ministries and services. It will cost nearly $3,200,000 to completely fund the ministries.

It is important to know that 100% of your contribution goes to the Bishop’s Ministry Appeal and not to any other diocesan expenses. All of the funds raised over your parish goal will remain at your parish.

How do I make my pledge to the Bishop’s Ministry Appeal?

You will be asked to complete a pledge envelope at Mass on Appeal Weekend. Just fill out the envelope and place it in the collection basket during the Offertory of the Mass on that weekend. Contributions can also be made by contacting the parish office or the Diocese Development office at 209/546-7646. Online giving is also available at www.stocktondiocese.org.

How much should I pledge?

Your Bishop’s Ministry Appeal pledge is part of your Christian stewardship of treasure. All families are asked to consider a sacrificial gift to the appeal. First consider the many ways God has blessed you and your loved ones, then make a generous pledge that says how grateful you are for God’s gifts.

Gifts of all sizes are appreciated, but for gifts of $600 or more, you will be included in a special group of dedicated and committed Catholics throughout the Diocese.

Pledges provide parishioners with the opportunity to increase their sacrificial gifts to the mission of the Church by spreading their donations over an eight-month period.

What payment methods can I use to make my pledge?

Pledges are paid by monthly installments over an 8-month period by credit card or direct debit (direct charge) to your checking or savings account. Donors choosing Electronic Funds Transfers will have their credit cards or checking accounts charged on or about the 20th of the month. One time payments can be paid by, credit card or direct debit to your checking or savings account or through online giving at the diocesan website.

Church of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary~ Diocese of Stockton ~
6715 Leesburg Place | Stockton, CA 95207 | Ph: 209-472-2150 I FAX: 209-472-0541